The WindEurope Annual Event 2026, one of the most significant gatherings for the renewable energy sector in Europe, has concluded in Madrid. This year’s forum brought together nearly 20,000 representatives of the global wind energy market. Among the key opinion leaders, experts, and decision-makers, the Polish voice – represented by the Polish Wind Energy Association and the Wind Industry Hub Foundation – resonated strongly.
Energy Security and European Independence
This year’s forum was dominated by discussions on energy security and the urgent necessity of reducing dependence on external energy suppliers. EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen highlighted that EU countries currently spend approximately €500 million daily on fossil fuel imports due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. The proposed solution is to intensify investments in local, more affordable energy sources, with wind power playing a pivotal role.
A major highlight of the first day was the announcement of the “Madrid Call To Action.” This 10-point appeal to EU leaders calls for wind energy development to be treated as an overriding public interest. The document emphasizes accelerating permitting processes, ensuring legislative stability, and strengthening the European supply chain.
International Cooperation and Sector Resilience
A significant element of the Polish presence in Madrid was the meeting with Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Energy, Artem Nekrasov. Poland and Ukraine continue to strengthen their cooperation in the wind sector. Ukraine’s experience in protecting critical energy infrastructure provides invaluable insights for the European debate on the sector’s resilience against external threats.
Polish Market Potential – “Market Update: Poland” Panel
A key highlight of the program dedicated to the domestic market was the “Market Update: Poland” panel discussion, moderated by PWEA Vice-President Piotr Czopek. The debate featured Polish administration representatives and industry leaders, including Dominika Taranko, Managing Director of the Wind Industry Hub.
The discussion focused on analyzing Poland’s investment potential, with a specific emphasis on the onshore wind sector. Panellists discussed recent regulatory changes and administrative barriers that still require optimization to fully unlock the Polish market’s capabilities. It was noted that Poland remains one of the most attractive destinations for wind investments in the region, a fact reflected in the high attendance and numerous inquiries from international investors.
Promoting the Polish Industry
Throughout the trade fair, participants visited the Polish national pavilion organized by the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH). The pavilion served as a central hub for business meetings and the promotion of Polish technological solutions. Polish companies are increasingly active in international markets, serving as ambassadors for the national industrial brand.
The event concluded with a networking evening that facilitated the exchange of experiences between onshore and offshore sector representatives from around the world, laying the groundwork for future partnerships and joint development projects.
The participation of the Wind Industry Hub Foundation at WindEurope 2026 confirmed that the Polish wind industry is prepared to play a key role in the European energy transition, provided it is supported by a stable legal framework and strong backing for the domestic supply chain.
